Group/Private

Humantay Lake Tour Full Day

Embark on a unique experience at Humantay Lake, located in the Cusco region at over 4,200 meters (13,800 feet) above sea level. This full-day tour offers the opportunity to witness one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The tour is part of the famous Salkantay Trail, which leads adventurers to Machu Picchu, and invites you to discover dreamlike landscapes and crystal-clear waters that mirror the sky.

The Humantay Lake Tour is perfect for nature lovers who want to enjoy a mountain environment connected to the heart of the Peruvian Andes. During this hike, you’ll enjoy two of the region’s main highlights:

Humantay Lake: A stunning turquoise mirror of water fed by the melting Humantay glacier, located at 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) above sea level.

Salkantay Mountain: The second-highest mountain in Cusco, standing at 6,270 meters (20,570 feet), considered sacred by local communities.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hike to Humantay Lake

The tour begins early, between 4:30 and 5:00 am, with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We’ll take private transportation for approximately two hours to the district of Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a delicious American breakfast — a great time to rest and stock up on drinks and snacks. Then we’ll head to Soraypampa at 3,900 meters (12,800 feet), the starting point of the hike to Humantay Lake.

As we move forward, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the majestic snow-capped Salkantay and Humantay mountains. Our professional guide will provide information about the route and some recommendations before beginning the ascent to the lake.

The hike to Humantay Lake takes approximately an hour and a half. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the turquoise lake at 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) above sea level. You’ll have time to explore and take photos.

After enjoying the lake, we’ll return to Soraypampa and continue back to Mollepata, where we’ll enjoy lunch. Finally, we’ll return to the city of Cusco, concluding the tour around 5:00 pm.

Includes

Included

Hotel pickup in Cusco
Private round-trip transportation
Professional guide (Spanish or English)
Meals: 1 breakfast and 1 lunch
Entrance tickets
First-aid kit and oxygen
Vegetarian and special diets upon request

Not Included

Meals and drinks not mentioned in the program
Travel insurance
Trekking poles
Extra activities and staff tips (optional)
Horse rental (USD 30.00)

Recommendations

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for cold mountain weather.
Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
If you have altitude-related health issues, consult a doctor before joining the tour.
Bring water and some snacks for the hike to the lake.
Get a good night’s sleep before the tour as the altitude can affect your endurance.
Wear proper hiking shoes for long and steep paths.
We recommend bringing a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and special moments.
Consider renting a horse if you prefer not to walk the entire route (USD 30.00).
Keep in mind that mountain weather is unpredictable — always be prepared for sudden rain.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to do the Humantay Lake Tour?

The best time to visit Humantay Lake is between April and October when the weather is drier and visibility is clearer. During the rainy season, from November to March, conditions may be more challenging and visibility reduced.

Do I need prior trekking experience for this tour?

No previous trekking experience is required, but good physical condition is recommended since the hike can be demanding due to the altitude. If you’re not used to mountain hiking, make sure to take breaks and bring enough water.

How long is the hike to Humantay Lake?

The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and trail conditions. The high altitude might make the ascent slower, but the views at the top are absolutely worth it.

What should I bring to the tour?

It’s recommended to bring warm and comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, and snacks. Don’t forget your camera to capture the incredible views along the way.